studies show that men are more likely to think about sex, and have relations with more partners – probably because in evolutionary terms, the prospect of pregnancy and motherhood meant that women needed to think carefully about potential partners.

MEN THINK ABOUT SEX EVERY SEVEN SECONDS

FALSE

Research by scientists at Ohio University found that on average, young men think about sex every 40 minutes. Women think about sex every 90 minutes.

GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES

FALSE

Researchers from the University of Westminster sent a woman to three different nightclubs with her hair dyed brunette, blonde and red, and recorded how many men approached her, and how they rated pictures of her. The study found that although the “blonde” received far more offers on the dance floor, the “brunette” was rated higher for perceived attractiveness and intelligence.

MEN FIND SUCCESSFUL WOMEN A TURN-OFF

FALSE

The rise of the alpha female is one of the most striking features of modern society. A century ago, intelligent and capable women were frustrated by laws and conventions that kept them out of the professions, and were not even seen as desirable mates. Now, such women are succeeding sexually as well as professionally. Fifty years ago, male surgeons married nurses; now they are as likely to marry other doctors. This effect is seen most strongly in IT and engineering, which until recently were strongly male-dominated. In Silicon Valley, the influx of women has led to a proliferation of high-flying techno-families.

BUT Men, however, prefer women who looked happy, and are least attracted to those who seem proud and confident.